course content

This is a guideline for what to expect in each meeting of the nine-class series. However, discussions and topics have a unique flow for each group, so some variation is likely.

CLASS 1: Introduction to The Bradley Method

We will get to know each other a bit and introduce the Bradley Method history, philosophy, and goals. We will cover what constitutes a healthy pregnancy diet, which nutrients are important, and what quantities are necessary. I will introduce important pregnancy exercises and will lead a discussion of how to handle pain, and ways to ease fear and avoid unnecessary pain in labor and birth.

CLASS 2: Choices in Childbirth

In this class we will discuss the various types of caregivers available to pregnant women and the pros and cons of each. We will also look at your choices for the actual place of birth. The second half of this class will deal with other issues regarding your care, such as how to have positive communications with your birth team throughout your pregnancy and how to discuss controversies with your care providers.

CLASS 3: First Stage of Labor and the Coach’s Role

An exploration of how your body works in the first stage of labor. We will cover anatomy and physiology of first stage, stressing our respect for the natural process and examining the built-in safeguards for you and your baby. I will show you basic coaching techniques and instruct you on how to practice together.

CLASS 4: Second and Third Stages of Labor

This class will show you how your body works in the second and third stages of labor. We will discuss and demonstrate basic pushing techniques and second stage positions. We will also discuss the importance of emotional and physical support and its effect on your labor and birth.

CLASS 5: Birth Interventions, Variations, and Complications

We will discuss interventions routinely used during labor and birth with ihe goal of helping you make informed decisions regarding the birth of your baby. We will also cover situations and complications that occasionally arise during birth. We will discuss how to avoid interventions, how to evaluate whether it is necessary to intervene, and how to handle interventions if they do become necessary.

CLASS 6: Cesarean Birth, Fetal Positioning, Birth Plans

This class covers cesarean birth, fetal positioning, and a discussion about your birth preferences. We will discuss many aspects of surgical birth. We will investigate “back labor” and other conditions of fetal positioning, what you can do to help your baby find the best position for his or her birth, and how your birth partner can help.

CLASS 7: Advanced Coaching and Review

Class seven heavily focuses on the importance of the coach’s role in achieving the ideal birth. We will take this time to review the way your body, your baby, and your partner will work together for this birth.

CLASS 8: Labor Rehearsal and Breastfeeding

This class is filled with advanced coaching techniques and comfort measures dealing directly with the challenge of handling the first and second stages of labor. You will participate in a labor rehearsal exercise to learn the rhythm and pace of active labor.

CLASS 9: Preparing for Your New Family

The last class of our nine-week series is devoted to the needs of the new family unit. We will discuss postpartum issues such as: routine newborn procedures, newborn care, mothering, fathering, breastfeeding, how to handle a crying baby, and adjusting to the many changes you will face during this time. Schedules permitting, this class will include a visit from our family’s pediatrician, Dr. Bill McNett.